The Happiest Place on Earth

I recently joined my daughter and her family on a pre-Christmas vacation to Walt Disney World in sunny Orlando, Fla. I had never been to Disney during the Christmas season and it was such a treat. I love living in an area that enjoys four distinct seasons, but there is something to be said about palm trees and 70 degree weather in December. Everywhere we looked was beautifully decorated with thousands of live poinsettias, pine and big red bows. Our resort even had a life-sized gingerbread house! The air was filled with the anticipation of Christmas, that special feeling before Christmas Day.

My granddaughters, ages seven and five, could hardly contain their excitement. We enjoyed brunch with Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Pluto and Goofy.  We also had dinner with various princesses at Epcot before heading to the candlelight processional where the story of Christmas was told along with a choir and orchestra. Disney World certainly goes the “extra mile” to make sure everything is perfect.  One of the highlights was the Very Merry Mickey Christmas Party held at the Magic Kingdom. They handed out hot chocolate and cookies during the special evening parade.  Plus, no Christmas party would be complete without “snow!” It was wonderful!  We loved watching Elsa (from the movie “Frozen”) freeze Cinderella’s Castle, riding Splash Mountain and seeing so many other wonderful things with my family.   If you ever have the opportunity to go, Disney at Christmas is well worth the trip!